When the New York Jets selected Florida State quarterback Jordan Travis, the prospect seemed like a potential steal to many. The Seminoles quarterback would be a project, but had the potential to become a suitable starter for New York if given time to learn.
Prior to breaking his leg in November, ending his 2023 season (and FSU’s playoff hopes), Travis was must-see television. He led FSU to an undefeated record while throwing for 2,756 yards in 11 games. He was decisive, yet protected the football, with 27 total touchdowns (20 passing, seven rushing) to just two interceptions.
However, at the moment, the trajectory of Travis’ career with the Jets remains in flux.
What are the Jets’ plans for Jordan Travis?
The situation going forward with Travis is murky for a number of reasons. The primary reason is his leg injury, which ended his college career. It will also cost him the entirety of his rookie year as well.
According to Jeff Ulbrich, Travis suffered multiple setbacks in his recovery process this season.
“Just because there have been some setbacks [with Jordan], I don’t see the need to really rush it. We got to really protect this guy because I think he has got a real future,” Ulbrich said in November in regards to Travis being available this season.
Hearing that a mobile quarterback suffered multiple setbacks from a severe leg injury is not the news anyone wants to hear. Regardless of how talented Travis is, the best ability is availability, and the margin for error for a backup is incredibly slim. With new coaches coming in, the lack of tape doesn’t do many favors for the Seminole product.
And that variable raises another concern as to the future with Travis with the Jets.
New GM, new coach, new quarterback?
New York moved on from Joe Douglas and Robert Saleh this season, which means there will be new faces inside the Jets organization.
At this point, most fans know a common cliché regarding these types of changes. More often than not, these incoming decision-makers always want to “get their guy” as opposed to keeping what’s in-house. This is especially true at the quarterback position, even more so on a team that has not been good in recent memory.
Travis wouldn’t project to be the starting quarterback in 2025. However, that’s exactly why he may be the odd man out going forward.
When looking at depth backup options, most coaches want players who are familiar with their system. Travis’ “redshirt” season may help him in the regard that he is essentially still a ball of clay for an NFL head coach. However, it may be more likely that the Jets look elsewhere depending on who New York brings in this offseason.
As mentioned previously, this isn’t an indictment on Travis. It’s just the way that the current NFL system works. Unfortunately, it’s unforgiving to many players, especially those suffering injuries that hinder their playing (and learning) opportunities.
Does a Rodgers return help Travis?
The biggest wild card regarding Travis’ situation with the Jets is New York’s current quarterback, Aaron Rodgers.
The 41-year-old has been inconsistent in his return from a torn Achilles. Because of that (and his future hits on the salary cap), the incoming general manager and head coach have an important decision to make. However, if they decide to stick with Rodgers for another year, it may actually bode well for Travis’ chances to stick with the team.
When Travis was drafted by the Jets, both Rodgers and backup quarterback Tyrod Taylor reached out to show their support to the FSU prospect. On top of that, the rookie stated that he sees himself as Rodgers’ successor going forward.
Now, a change in the staff always complicates things a bit. However, continuity of the quarterback room for another year allows the unit to continue to progress – which is especially important for a player like Travis.
What should the Jets do?
Personally, I believe the best move for the Jets is to make sure Travis stays on the roster for the foreseeable future. If the injury continues to be a concern, that’s one issue. However, the ceiling that Travis displayed at Florida State is worth taking a chance on.
Despite the major question marks surrounding the quarterback position in 2025, there’s no clear answer at the moment. Whether Rodgers returns, the team gets a bridge quarterback, gives Tyrod the reigns, or uses a draft pick on a quarterback, Travis could become a reliable option to fall back on if he’s healthy and able to get reps in a new system.
Considering where the Jets are likely to draft in 2025, it doesn’t make much sense to reach for a quarterback in the first round, either. That should extend the lifeline of Travis in New York, and it could allow him to speak his words into existence and potentially become the eventual starter for the Jets.
